Bring your Eight up to Date
with power products from
Computer Software Services
PO Box 17660
Rochester, New York 14617
Ordering line: (716) 429-5639
FAX: (716) 247-7158
BBS: (716) 247-7157
19 9 3
Product Catalog
Computer Software Services
PO Box 17660
Rochester, New York 14617
Ordering line: (716) 429-5639
FAX: (716) 247-7158
BBS: (716) 247-7157
Computer Software Services has been leading the way in innovative computing devices for
the Atari 8-bit computer since 1982. Ten years later, we are continuing to develop new
products, squeezing every ounce of performance out of the 8-bits.
All products in this catalog are currently available as of July, 1992. However, prices and
availability are subject to change without notice. Shipping costs have been listed for single
purchases within the USA. Please call for multiple package or overseas shipping rates.
A look at the past
In 1982, Computer Software Services was founded with its first product, the Pill, which
became an immediate success. The product line expanded to include disk drive
modifications and simple computer enhancements.
When Atari introduced the XL series, CSS was the first to develop a translator program
(called the XL FIX), which actually worked better than the one Atari later released. The
Impossible was released about this time, becoming a best-seller. It was the first backup
tool that made backing up protected programs on unmodified disk drives possible.
In 1987, CSS came out with what was said to be "Impossible": the Super Archiver for the
1050 drive. This was (and still is) the only backup tool capable of reproducing all the
different types of error sectors including "phantom" sectors.
Two years later, the Black Box was developed. Although not being the first in its class, it
remains the most compatible and fastest hard disk host adapter available. The Multiplexer
was also released, being the first practical networking system for the 8-bit.
When Atari released the XF551 drive, CSS was there with the XF551 Enhancer, and later
theXF Single and Dual Drive Upgrades.
In June of 1991, Bob Puff became President of CSS. Bob is the designer of the majority of
CSS' current products, as well as Shareware programs SuperArc and BobTerm. In early
1992, CSS came out with one of its most innovative products, The Floppy Board, allowing
the 8-bit user to use industry standard drive mechanisms on their 8-bit with amazing speed.
What the future holds for CSS will depend on God. Although many companies have
abandoned the Atari 8-bit, we see it as a viable computer able to meet the needs of the
average computer user. Rest assured, we will be here supporting this machine for a long
time to come! If you have suggestions or comments, contact us!
2
The Black Box
The Black Box is an add-on board for the Atari 600XL (64kB), 800XL, and 130XE 8-bit
computers. It is a T-shaped board that plugs into the PBI port of the XL computer, or the ECI
and cartridge ports of the 130XE. Connectors for both types of computers are built into the
Black Box, so no adapter boards are necessary. A cartridge port is available on the board
itself for 130XE users, since the board plugs into the cartridge port. The board is 12 inches
wide and 3 inches deep, sitting back 3 inches from your computer. It has two switches, two
push-buttons, and a set of DIP switches on the top.
The Black Box provides many unique and useful functions. The four primary functions are:
0 RS-232 serial modem port
0 Parallel printer port
o SASI/SCSI hard disk port
0 Operating System enhancements
The RS-232 port provides the full RS-232 specification signal levels for a modem or other
serial device. It emulates the Atari 850 interface very closely, but goes beyond by providing
19,200 baud capability. The R: driver is built in, and does not use any user memory. The
Black Box is the only interface to support hardware flow control. This enables owners of high
speed modems (4800 baud and up) to use their modem at full speed, and not worry about
data loss due to a slow BBS or terminal program.
The parallel printer port interfaces to most all Centronics printers. You may assign the printer
number and linefeed options from within the Black Box's configuration menu. The Black Box
allows buffering of the data to be printed. A printer buffer allows you to quickly dump your
file to be printed, then go about your business as it sends the data to your printer. The Black
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Peripherals
The Black Box
The Black Box is an add-on board for the Atari 600XL (64kB), 800XL, and 130XE 8-bit
computers. It is a T-shaped board that plugs into the PBI port of the XL computer, or the ECI
and cartridge ports of the 130XE. Connectors for both types of computers are built into the
Black Box, so no adapter boards are necessary. A cartridge port is available on the board
itself for 130XE users, since the board plugs into the cartridge port. The board is 12 inches
wide and 3 inches deep, sitting back 3 inches from your computer. It has two switches, two
push-buttons, and a set of DIP switches on the top.
The Black Box provides many unique and useful functions. The four primary functions are:
0 RS-232 serial modem port
0 Parallel printer port
0 SASI/SCSI hard disk port
0 Operating System enhancements
The RS-232 port provides the full RS-232 specification signal levels for a modem or other
serial device. It emulates the Atari 850 interface very closely, but goes beyond by providing
19,200 baud capability. The R: driver is built in, and does not use any user memory. The
Black Box is the only interface to support hardware flow control. This enables owners of high
speed modems (4800 baud and up) to use their modem at full speed, and not worry about
data loss due to a slow BBS or terminal program.
The parallel printer port interfaces to most all Centronics printers. You may assign the printer
number and linefeed options from within the Black Box's configuration menu. The Black Box
allows buffering of the data to be printed. A printer buffer allows you to quickly dump your
file to be printed, then go about your business as it sends the data to your printer. The Black
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Peripherals
Peripherals
Box will use either its own RAM (if you order the 64K version) or the 130XE (and
compatibles) extended memory banks. This is all controlled by the configuration menu.
The hard disk port was the real reason for the design of the Black Box. You may connect
most any hard disk controller that is SASI or SCSI compatible, or drives with embedded
SCSI controllers. It is totally compatible with the current versions of MYDOS and
SpartaDOS (both of which have a limit of 16 megabytes per logical drive). Combine that
with nine drives, and that's over 130 megs available at any given time, but your total storage
is virtually limitless! The Black Box is the only interface to provide a conversion toggle for
drives capable of only 512 byte sectors. Many of the new3.5 inch embedded drives have
this limitation, and previously were unusable. The Black Box splits each 512 byte sector into
two 256 byte sectors, so your DOS will still only see what it requires. Another advantage to
512 byte mode is storage space. Many drives/controllers will give you more storage when
using 512 byte sectors (some as much as 15% more).
The Black Box has been tested with many drives and controllers. So far, no controller or
embedded drive has been found to be incompatible. The following SASI/SCSI to ST506
controllers have been tested: Adaptec 4000a and 4070, Konan DJ210, OMTI 352x, Seagate
ST9000, SMS FWD5001, Western Digital WD1002SHD, and Xebec S-1410(a) controllers.
A partition is defined as a part of the hard disk which is seen by the computer as a separate
disk drive. Since many hard disks are very large, it is useful to split the drive into several
individual "drives" or partitions. The Black Box goes one step further in not only letting you
define the partition for each of your 9 available drives, but allows you to have a list of up to
96 partitions with names. Since a partition can be very small, you can make several small
partitions of 720 sectors (the same size as a standard floppy disk), and sector-copy any of
your non-protected programs to these partitions. Now you can swap that partition in as drive
1, and boot your program at hard disk speed!
The configuration menu is the "heart" of the Black Box. You can enter the menu from
wherever you are by simply pressing one of the buttons on the board. You may now edit the
hard disk configuration, exchange drive numbers, enable/disable the modem and printer
ports, or go into the 6502 monitor. After you are finished, pressing ESCAPE will put you right
back into the program you were using! No memory or screen display is destroyed by using
the menu.
The 6502 monitor is very handy for machine language programmers. How often have you
wondered where your program was, or what caused an apparent "lock-up"? Entering the
monitor will show you all the processor registers, and display the disassembly of the
instruction it was about to execute when you pressed the button. Users of MAC/65's DDT
will feel right at home with the commands. Zero page is left untouched!
The Black Box speeds operation to floppy drives if they are capable of high speed mode.
XF551s, modified 1050s, and Happy 810 drive owners will experience high speed operation
with virtually all programs, not just specialized utilities. RAMdisk owners will appreciate the
HELP/RESET coldstart switch, allowing rebooting of the computer from any lockup, while
retaining the data in the RAMdisk.
4
A text or graphics printer dump of your screen may be done at any time by pressing one of
the buttons on the Black Box. (The graphics dump is only available for dot-matrix printers
capable of graphics.)
You may write-protect ALL of your hard disks by flipping a switch on the board. This can be a
real life saver when running new or unknown software. The Black Box provides disk I/O
tones with separate pitches for disk reads and writes to your hard disk, so you can hear
what's going on. This option may be disabled from within the configuration menu.
The Black Box also provides support for users who have previously used an ICD MIO to store
data on a hard disk. The MIO actually stores data inverted: this is fine as long it is your only
host adaptor, but when another (such as the Black Box) reads the same data, it will be
meaningless. You can have compatibility with an MIO-formatted hard disk by simply setting
a DIP switch. CSS offers a complete line of accessories for your Black Box. The Black Box
Case, a durable black plastic housing for your Black Box, sells for $39.95. Both the Black
Box serial cable, a ready-to-use modem cable, and the Black Box printer cable, a ready-to-
use Centronics printer cable, sell for $9.95 each.
The Black Box is $199.95 for the basic unit, and $249.95 with an onboard 64K printer buffer.
Shipping and handling is $8.
The Floppy Board
Our latest and greatest product! The Floppy Board is an add-on expansion board for the
Black Box interface. It allows the use of the same inexpensive floppy drive mechanisms used
in IBM computers. The Floppy Board is the first floppy drive interface to support "high
density" floppy drive mechanisms. Up to four floppy drive mechanisms can be connected.
The Floppy Board supports not only 720kB and 1,44MB 3.5 inch drives, but also the popular
1,2MB and 360kB 5.25 inch drives. Also supported are the older 180kB 5.25 inch, 360kB 3.5
inch, and 8 inch floppy drives. Built-in to the Floppy Board are our Black Box Enhancer
(see next page) and a version of our Super Archiver to allow copying of protected disks for
3.5 inch format.
Since the Floppy Board uses the parallel interface on your computer, disks formatted on the
Floppy Board are accessed at parallel bus speeds, providing substantial performance
increases never before seen on an 8-bit computer. When first booting your computer, a
Floppy Board drive will load MYDOS 4.50 four times faster than an Atari 1050!
Subsequent resets of the computer yield even greater speed increases in both reading and
writing times!
Floppy Board drives connect to the floppy drive port on the Black Box, and are configured
through the Black Box configuration menu. Floppy Board drives are addressed differently
than external drives, so they do not interfere with their operation. Through the Black Box
configuration menu, you can have four external drives and four Floppy Board drives online at
once! Included with your Floppy Board is our program to read and write to IBM or ST
formatted disks. This makes the Floppy Board the best way to transfer files to or from your 8-
bit!
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Peripherals
Peripherals
Installation requires only two simple solder connections and plugging the Floppy Board into
your Black Box. The Floppy Board is only $149.95 plus $8 shipping and handling. CSS
also sells a 1.44MB drive kit for the Floppy Board. This kit includes a brand new 1.44MB
drive mechanism, power supply, and drive cable. Please call for availability and pricing. We
also sell drive cables, power supplies, and power conversion cables for floppy drive
mechanisms.
The Super E-Burner
The Super E-Burner is a PROM/EPROM programmer that plugs into your cartridge port.
While a ROM permanently stores data (such as in a cartridge), an EPROM is a
programmable ROM that is used for permanent or semi-permanent data storage. The
Super-E Burner provides the special voltages and pulses need to program these devices,
and at very fast speeds! It can program all EPROM sizes ranging from the 2732 to the newer
1MB EPROMs. The easy to use software allows you to read and program EPROMs and save
their contents to disk. A hexadecimal and ASCII editor is built-in, so data may be easily
altered and re-burned.
The Super-E Burner retails for $169.95. Also available is the Gang Super E-Burner, which
burns two EPROMs at once. Only $199.95. Add $8 for shipping/handling.
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The Black Box Enhancer
A must for all Black Box owners! The Black Box Enhancer is a plug-in module for your Black
Box, enhancing the printer functions and adding an instantly available, full featured sector
editor!
The built in screen dump function will now render a hardcopy with a 16 shade grey scale
representation of the colors. A special graphics printer handler is built-in, which allows any
output directed to P9: to be printed on your graphics-compatible printer with the same
character font used on your computer. This means all the Atari special control and graphics
characters will be printed, along with inverse!
The built in Task Master sector editor is the most powerful editor we've seen for the 8-bit. It
contains a sector copier featuring multiple copies, automatic formatting, and uses all
available memory. Since the Black Box provides Ultra Speed data transfer to modified floppy
drives, this makes for fast disk duplication.
The Task Master is not limited to only floppy disks. It can handle up to 16MB hard disk
partitions (even in the sector copier mode). All three densities are supported. The sector
editor allows editing (in hexadecimal or character mode) of individual sectors on a floppy or
hard disk. You may search for a sequence of bytes (again, in hexadecimal or character
mode), and even disassemble the contents of a sector into 6502 code. Since the Black Box
gives you the capability to do screen dumps to your printer, you can make hardcopies of your
editing.
The Task Master sector editor provides full DOS support for MYDOS, SpartaDOS, and Atari
DOS derivatives. Subdirectories are fully supported. You may link through individual files by
simply moving through the directory and highlighting the file you wish to edit. 16 bit and
sector map linking are supported for hard disks, and 11 bit linking for floppies. It is ideal for
quickly editing files and repairing damaged directories.
Installation of the Black Box Enhancer requires one simple solder connection. Only $49.95
plus $5 shipping/handling.
The SIO Power Booster
Weak data signals are often the cause of errors in data transmissions, especially when
working in high/Ultra Speed modes. Long cables, modems, interfaces, and other devices
that draw their power from the computer (rather than having their own power supply) often
degrade the waveform of the signals between your computer and other peripherals,
sometimes resulting in errors. The SIO Power Booster will amplify the signal to and from your
computer 20 to 100 times, providing perfect square wave data transmission, regardless of
peripherals used. The SIO Power Booster looks like a standard SIO cable and simply
replaces one of your existing cables. Only $39.95 plus $5 shipping/handling.
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Peripherals
Peripherals
The Multiplexer
This device brings the power and flexibility of larger systems to your 8-bit. The Multiplexer is
a collection of cartridge interface boards that allow up to 8 Ataris to read and write to the
same drives (typically a hard disk), access the same printer(s), and talk to each other. It is the
first practial networking system for the Atari 8-bit computer.
One "master" computer (any 8-bit) is equipped with the master Multiplexer interface. Then up
to 8 "slave" computers hook up to this master, each having their own slave interface. The
slave interface consists of a cartridge that plugs into the cartridge port. It has its own socket
on the top, so you can use whatever cartridges you desire with the system.
The "common" peripherals (things that are to be shared) are connected to the master. On
each slave, all disk and printer I/O is routed through the master, so no extra disk drives are
needed. The master computer can be configured in any manner you wish. You may have
certain peripherals local to the slave, or routed to a different number on the master. Note that
serial ports (R: RS232 interfaces) are not multiplexed.
Under development is a BBS system that will make full use of this device, allowing up to 8
lines/users to be using the system at the same time! A multi-user chat mode is a feature of
this BBS; however, you do not need this program to run a BBS with the Multiplexer (but be
warned that not all BBS programs will run concurrently). All slaves are independent, and do
not need to have the same program running on them. To see the Multiplexer at work, give
our BBS a call!
This system is excellent for BBS SysOps; you can be using your hard disk(s) while still
running your BBS uninterrupted. Another example is in a classroom situation, or anywhere a
disk needs to be shared by many people. This is an excellent programming and debugging
tool as well!
The Multiplexer sells for $199.95 for a master and two slave units with cable. Additional
slave units are $89.95 each. Shipping/handling is $5.
8
Peripherals
The Multiplexer
This device brings the power and flexibility of larger systems to your 8-bit. The Multiplexer is
a collection of cartridge interface boards that allow up to 8 Ataris to read and write to the
same drives (typically a hard disk), access the same printer(s), and talk to each other. It is the
first practial networking system for the Atari 8-bit computer.
One "master" computer (any 8-bit) is equipped with the master Multiplexer interface. Then up
to 8 "slave" computers hook up to this master, each having their own slave interface. The
slave interface consists of a cartridge that plugs into the cartridge port. It has its own socket
on the top, so you can use whatever cartridges you desire with the system.
The "common" peripherals (things that are to be shared) are connected to the master. On
each slave, all disk and printer I/O is routed through the master, so no extra disk drives are
needed. The master computer can be configured in any manner you wish. You may have
certain peripherals local to the slave, or routed to a different number on the master. Note that
serial ports (R: RS232 interfaces) are not multiplexed.
Under development is a BBS system that will make full use of this device, allowing up to 8
lines/users to be using the system at the same time! A multi-user chat mode is a feature of
this BBS; however, you do not need this program to run a BBS with the Multiplexer (but be
warned that not all BBS programs will run concurrently). All slaves are independent, and do
not need to have the same program running on them. To see the Multiplexer at work, give
our BBS a call!
This system is excellent for BBS SysOps; you can be using your hard disk(s) while still
running your BBS uninterrupted. Another example is in a classroom situation, or anywhere a
disk needs to be shared by many people. This is an excellent programming and debugging
tool as well!
The Multiplexer sells for $199.95 for a master and two slave units with cable. Additional
slave units are $89.95 each. Shipping/handling is $5.
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The Quintopus
The Quintopus is a tremendously convenient device that eliminates the problems associated
with the endless "daisy chaining" of peripherals (drives, interfaces, printers, etc.). The
Quintopus is an I/O port expander that converts a single I/O port into five ports. Instead of
daisy chaining all your peripherals (which often times results in passing a signal through 30
feet or more of cable), the Quintopus allows each device to be connected directly to the
computer through only three or four feet of cable. This is particularly useful when attempting
to use Ultra Speed data transfers. The Quintopus provides the extra I/O ports often needed
to connect devices not having daisy chaining capabilities, such as the XM301 and SX212
modems. Cable resistance and capacitance are greatly reduced, thereby significantly
improving the probability of accurate data transfers.
A deluxe version of the Quintopus has all of the standard Quintopus' features with the
additional benefits of two switchable ports. This means you can switch between multiple
combinations of peripherals or computers without the hassle of rearranging I/O cables.
The basic Quintopus is only $39.95, and the switchable port version sells for only $59.95.
Add $5 for shipping/handling.
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Peripherals
Peripherals
Hard Drive Systems
CSS offers complete, ready-to-run hard disk systems starting at 5 MB. These systems
include a hard disk. Black Box, power supply, controller, cables, and software. Everything is
tested and preformatted, so all you have to do is plug it in and run!
Many people ask, "Do I really need a hard drive?" The answer varies, but once you get used
to the convenience of having all your most used programs in one place and the speed at
which they load (about 15 times faster than most floppies), you'll wonder how you ever got
along without it. BBS owners will appreciate the speed, as well as the wear and tear saved
on their floppy drives. It is perfect for software developers, as you can speed assembly/
compiling time, as well as keep all versions of your program stored safely away.
Because the Black Box allows single density unprotected disks to be placed on the hard
disk, the compatibility door is open for even DOSes that do not support hard disks.
A 10MB drive is a good size for a first time hard disk user. BBS SysOps will probably want
more, depending on the BBS type and audience. Prices start as low as $399, but since the
prices of drives vary, call for the latest prices and specials.
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The Super Archiver
The Super Archiver is not just another double density high speed upgrade. Rather, it is the
most powerful copying and disk editing tool available for the 8-bit computer! Copies of disks
are exact duplicates of originals, eliminating the need for patches, PDB files, or extra
computer hardware. The Super Archiver is the fastest non-buffered upgrade for the 1050
drive.
Once installed, your drive has the ability to perform in all three densities, reconfiguring
automatically as needed. But unlike some upgrades, 100% compatibility is maintained, so
you will be able to boot any disk regardless of the protection. The software provided enables
sophisticated editing of single density disks.
Ultra Speed data transfer is fully implemented, so programs and hardware modifications
supporting this will really take off. (Both the Black Box and the UttraSpeed + OS support
this.)
The Super Archiver is fully compatible with the older Archiver for the 810 drive, but comes
complete with more powerful software that makes use of the 1050’s extended capabilities.
You may use an Archiver 810 drive for two drive backups.
The Super Archiver software is more than just a backup program. It enables the user to
actually edit each sector (with ML disassembly), modify the sector layout on each track, and
create your own bad sectors and other forms of protection. The Super Archiver is the only
modification that will reproduce "phantom" sectors. The software included will duplicate
these automatically, as well as let you write your own. Extra memory is supported for single
pass copies. Track skewing (aligning each track in a certain order) is supported, as well as
automatic speed compensation required to write out long tracks.
Included on the disk are other useful utility and diagnostic programs. The Mapper allows
tracing the loading of a program within the drive. The Super Archiver utilities are all
designed with simplicity in mind, yet with enough power for your needs.
The only programs we know that cannot be duplicated are the newer Electronic Arts
programs and Synapse Syn-series (34 full sectors/track). However, we do have a fix for this!
(See the Bit-Writer.)
NOTE: Disks should only be copied to backup your original program disks! CSS in no wav
supports the misuse of this product as a pirating device.
The Super Archiver is only $69.95 plus $5 shipping/handling. Installation requires a few
solder connections, and if you choose, we will install and test the upgrade at no charge.
1 1
1050
Enhancements
1050
Enhancements
The Super Archiver II
The Super Archiver II edits and copies all enhanced density programs plus retains all the
features of our Super Archiver. This allows you to copy or create single or enhanced density
protection schemes (including "phantom" sectors). It is completely automatic and compatible
with the Super Archiver, giving you a truly powerful backup and programming device.
Minimal soldering required. Only $99.95 plus $5 shipping/handling. NOTICE: If you
already own a Super Archiver, you may upgrade to a Super Archiver II for only $29.95 plus
$5 shipping/ handling. This is a software-only upgrade.
The Bit-Writer
The Super Archiver Bit-Writer is capable of duplicating even the "uncopyable" Electronic
Arts and Synapse Syn-series, which employ 34 full sectors/track. These cannot be
duplicated with the Super Archiver, as a standard floppy disk controller chip is simply not
capable of writing what is necessary. The Bit-Writer is capable of reproducing these and
future protection schemes of non-physically damaged disks, because it breaks down the
data into bits, and writes it all out at once.
Installation into the 1050 drive includes plugging in a circuit board and making four solder
connections. The Super Archiver with the Bit-Writer is the ultimate backup tool for the 1050
disk drive. The Bit-Writer must be used with the Super Archiver. Only $79.95 plus $5
shipping/handling.
The Silencer
The Silencer has two functions: it quiets your 1050 drive by using a special lubricant on the
drive's head rails, and allows writing to BOTH sides of any disks without having to notch the
disk. The hardware consists of a plug-in harness with a switch on the end. When the switch
is in one position, writes are enabled. In the other position, the disk is write protected
(regardless if the disk actually has a write protect tab).
Available only for the 1050 drive. Only $19.95 plus $5 shipping/handling.
1050 Disk Drives
We also maintain a limited inventory of reconditioned Atari 1050 disk drives, upgraded with
the Super Archiver II, Bit-Writer, and Silencer. These drives are in excellent condition and
include power supply and SIO cable. Only $249.95 plus $8 shipping/handling.
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The XF551 Enhancer
The Atari XF551 disk drive was the first to use an industry standard drive mechanism and be
capable of true double sided operation. This is fine for those who use its double sided
double density mode, but many 810 and 1050 owners use the back sides of their disks by
simply flipping the disk over and notching a write protect hole.
Because the XF uses the index hole on the disk (which the 810 and 1050 did not use),
flipping a disk over and formatting it is not possible. The XF551 Enhancer provides a switch
to put your XF551 into "1050 mode". This restores 100% compatibility with the 810/1050 for
creating these "flippy" disks. In fact, you don't even have to notch the disk! A write protect
disable is built-in.
The XF551 Enhancer sells for only $34.95 plus $5 shipping/handling. European customers
please request 50Hz version.
The XF Single Drive Upgrade
The XF551 3.5 inch Single Drive Upgrade for your XF551 disk drive will double your storage
space to 720kB by replacing your 5.25 inch 360kB floppy with a new 3.5 inch 720kB floppy
disk drive. Not to be confused with public domain upgrades, our custom chip and brain
module provide true Ultra Speed compatibility (extremely fast operation with compatible
sector copiers and DOSes), and eliminates incompatibilities with software. The upgrade is
designed so that it will work with a 5.25 inch drive, should you ever need to switch back to it.
Included in our kit is a high quality 3.5 inch floppy drive mounted in a 5.25 inch frame, so as
to provide a perfect fit inside your XF551. Also included is a program which allows you to
read IBM and Atari ST disks on your converted drive. Built in text translation is featured for
easy porting of PC/ST text files into 8-bit word processors.
Minimal soldering is required for installation. As usual, CSS provides free installation for
those unable to do it themselves.
The XF551 Single Drive Upgrade sells for only $99.95 plus $8 shipping/handling. If you
already have a 3.5 inch drive to use, you may order the kit minus the 3.5 inch drive for $59.95
plus $5 shipping/handling.
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XF551
Enhancements
XF551
Enhancements
The XF Dual Drive Upgrade
Our XF Dual Drive Upgrade has all the features of our Single Drive Upgrade, but allows you
to have both your 5.25 inch 360kB floppy and a 3.5 inch 720kB floppy drive on your system.
This is a totally switchless upgrade that turns one XF551 into two disk drives. Each drive acts
separately, with the 3.5 inch drive assuming the next drive number higher than the 5.25 inch
drive. You can copy between drives, even mixing densities!
Complete with a 3.5 inch drive, the XF551 3.5 inch Deluxe Upgrade is only $139.95 plus $8
shipping/handling. If you already have a 3.5 inch drive, you may purchase the kit minus the
3.5 inch drive for $89.95 plus $5 shipping/handling.
XF Update
The XF551 Update is a completely new operating system for your XF551 disk drive that gives
you many features you would expect to have had from the beginning.
The operating system for the drive has been completely rewritten so as to eliminate the
problems and incompatibilities associated with the XF551 drive. The new operating system
runs more commercial software, changes density properly, supports true Ultra Speed data
transfer (actually, slightly faster than the 1050 Ultra Speed), and has an optimized interleave
in high speed formats to produce the fastest possible operation. It is the upgrade every
XF551 owner should have!
Installation requires only a few simple solder connections. The XF551 Update sells for only
$39.95 plus $5 shipping and handling.
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Power Plus memory upgrade
(for 800XL, 65XE, and 130XE computers only)
The Power Plus memory upgrade gives you a total of 256K of memory in an 800XL, or 320K
in a 130XE. This extra memory may be used as a RAMdisk (capable of holding more than a
full double density disk worth of data), as storage for making one pass disk copies (with
compatible sector copiers), or as program storage (with products such as BASIC XE). CSS
studied the various upgrades available, and has come up with what we believe to be the
most compatible.
Since this is a major operation for most computers, installation is provided with the upgrade.
You send us your computer, we will install and test the upgrade, then ship the computer
back.
The Power Plus memory upgrade is only $99.95 plus $8 shipping/handling.
The Ultra Speed Plus OS
The Operating System that should be in every XL/XE computer! The Ultra Speed Plus puts
unbelievable speed and convenience at your fingertips. After using it a while, you'll be
spoiled! Charles Cherry in the April '89 ANTIC magazine reviewed, "Quite simply, if you
don't have Ultra Speed Plus, you’re using a crippled Atari."
Use any DOS to place Ultra Speed formats on your disks (with XF551 or modified 1050
drives), reading and writing at this speed with most programs. This high speed mode can be
turned off for maximum compatibility.
Built in RAMdisk handlers recognize any size (up to 2MB) XE-type memory upgrade. This
RAM drive may be treated like a regular disk drive, capable of single or double density
operation. Since the handlers are in ROM, most all programs (including sector copiers) see
it. This opens up a whole new realm, as you can sector copy a disk into RAM, edit it, and
even boot from it. A mini sector copier is built in for easy use.
A configuration menu is built-in, and may be used to re-map disk drives to respond to
different drive numbers, and change the drive number of the RAMdisk.
The memory test routines have been rewritten, and test all of the available memory. If a
problem is found, the offending bit is displayed. The diagnostic ROM bit on the PIA is not
needed, so all bits are available for memory upgrade use.
Several key functions have been added: a cold start key (to allow rebooting from any
lockup without losing the contents of your RAMdisk), disk I/O sound toggle, screen DMA
disable (turn off the screen to increase processing time of slow programs!), internal BASIC
toggle, keyboard lock, and screen color toggle. The OPTION key is reversed when
booting, so you don't need to hold it to run machine language programs.
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Computer
Enhancements
Computer
Software Enhancements
The Ultra Speed Plus module actually contains three operating systems: the Ultra Speed
Plus OS, the standard XL/XE OS, and the XL Fix Plus OS. The XL Fix Plus is a 400/800 OS
translator in ROM, so you won't have to boot a translator disk againl It has two modes of
operation for maximum compatibility.
Four simple solder connections are required for installation if your machine has a socketed
OS ROM. If the OS is not socketed, installation should be done by someone proficient in
desoldering. As always, we provide free installation if you send us your computer. Only
$69.95 plus $5 shipping/handling.
Power Supplies
We carry heavy duty power supplies for XL and XE computers (except 1200XLs) that are
capable of supplying twice the power of standard supplies. These are much more reliable
and run cooler than the stock power packs, and supply the required power for heavily
enhanced machines. Ready to be plugged in and used, it is only $17.95 plus $8
shipping/handling.
320K 130XE Computers
We have a limited supply of reconditioned 130XE computers, upgraded to 320kB RAM (see
the Power Plus memory upgrade), and complete with the Ultra Speed Plus OS package for
only $249.95. These computers are in excellent condition, and includes one of our
heavy-duty power supplies. Shipping/handling is $8.
The Hard Drive Pro Backup
The Hard Drive Pro Backup is a truly useful utility for all hard drive owners. Because hard
drives aren't perfect, it's always a good idea to keep a current backup of its contents. This
program will allow you to save the contents of your hard disk to one or more floppy drives, or
another hard disk. This is the only 8-bit program of its type that supports multiple destination
drives (saves time in feeding new disks), features data compression (to save on the number
of disks needed), and works with both MYDOS and SpartaDOS.
You may backup only selected directories, only the files written since the last backup, or by
date. High speed operation is supported with XF551 drives, modified 1050 drives, and
Happy 810 drives. A printer log of all files backed up may be made. A special format is used
to produce the absolutely fastest backup possible.
Disk and full documentation is only $49.95 plus $5 shipping/handling.
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The Richman's Word Processor
This 80 column software only word processor features ease of use and all features needed
in a word processor. Works best with a black & white TV or monochrome monitor. Its
features include:
OCompletely menu driven
oSelf contained DOS
OComplete text formatting
OBuilt-in printer drivers
OPage numbering
OJustify and endfill
OHigh speed cursor
OSpell checker
OChange screen colors, borders,
and luminance
The Richman's 80 Column Word Processor is only $39.95 plus $5 shipping/handling. This
product is not for use with hard drives.
Olnsert and delete
OSearch mode
OView-only mode
OMemory statistics
OAlternate output
080 columns on screen
OMouse compatible
OXEP-80 compatible
The Disk Cracker
This truly useful sector editor/copier is what we used at our offices for all our editing. In fact,
the Black Box Enhancer's editor was derived from this program.
The sector copier uses extra memory (if available) for single pass copies. Works with single
and double density floppy disks. Automatic formatting and multiple copies supported.
The sector editor allows editing of both hex and ASCII data (even in internal code), as well
as disassembly of the sector into 6502 machine code. Forward and backward linking and
directory operations are supported for DOS II type disks.
A DOS II directory finder/scrambler is built in, as well as support for bad sector hardware
such as the Protector. Only $19.95 + $5 shipping/handling. This product is not for use with
hard drives.
The Super Pill
Our legendary cartridge backup device for 8K and 16K cartridges (not the bank selecting
super cartridges). Store the contents of cartridges on disk, and run them from a menu
program. Saves wear and tear on cartridges. Switchless module makes operation a snap!
Only $24.95 + $5 shipping/ handling.
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Software
Etc. Software
The Black Patch
Great for placing programs on hard disks, this program unprotects commercial programs,
eliminating custom formats and bad sectors. Copies may then be sector copied.
Features built in sector copier supporting single pass copies on machines with
XE-compatible memory. Over 400 patches come on the two data disks supplied. This
product should be used ONLY for making personal backups! Only $29.95 + $5 shipping/
handling.
SIO Cables
We have lots of SIO cables in stock, something which you can never have too many! $4.95
each. Quantity discounts available.
Hard Disk Controllers
We carry four types of hard disk controllers, for new systems or as replacements:
Adaptec 4000a SCSI $ 89.95
Adaptec 4070 (RLL) SCSI $124.95
Western Digital 1002SHD SASI $59.95
Xebec SI410a SASI $ 59.95
Installation and Repairs
Although installation of any of our products is easy, by taking advantage of our free
installation offer, you can rest assured the job will be done right. All you pay is the return
freight.
For repair of Atari 8-bit computers and disk drives at reasonable rates, contact our repair
department at (716) 429-5639. All work is guaranteed, and there are no minimum estimate
fees.
Two for one deal
If you have two or more of the same items needing repair and don't want to spend any
money, send them to us! We’ll use the parts from both defective items to make one good
working unit at no charge. We will keep the other defective unit for parts. Full testing is
done on repairs to insure peak performance.
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Dealer / User Group Discounts
We have a very flexible discount plan that makes it easy for you or your user group to attain
dealer status. Purchase 12 or more items from this catalog, each with a retail value of $50 or
greater, and you will be qualified as a dealer. This means you receive a 25-30% discount of
all products we manufacture. This does not mean 12 pieces of the same item; you can mix
and match!
Due to very slim profit margins, we cannot discount hard disk controllers, computers, and
drives. Call for more information.
Used Software & Books
CSS also has a large inventory of pre-owned Atari 8-bit software and books, including all
sorts of original Atari product manuals. Call for a list of current inventory. We also purchase
used 8-bit equipment!
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Etc.
Computer Software Services
PO Box 17660
Rochester, NY 14617